Mississippi University for Women's Counselling Center sponsored "Jeans 4 Justice" on Sept. 29 in front of the Hogarth dining area.

The purpose of this event was to spread awareness and empowerment to both women and men who have been affected by domestic and sexual violence. The event lasted from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jeans 4 Justice allowed participants to use a pair of donated jeans to paint a story to honor those who have been a victim of sexual or domestic violence.

Once the participants finished painting their jeans, the pants were displayed on a wire line. This gave everyone the opportunity to view the stories and to remind victims and participants that they are not alone.

"Participants can express their own stories through art, and they do not have to identify themselves on the jeans. This activity is strictly anonymous," said Rachel Clair Franklin, an MUW certified counselor.

Jeans 4 Justice is a national organization that works to help campuses develop a visual representation for advocacy and awareness.

In addition, this event gives students a way to do something different. Instead of discussing issues in an office setting, they can express their thoughts by painting them on a pair of jeans.

The goal is to help the campus become more aware of the resources that the counseling center offers for individuals who are a victim of sexual or domestic violence.

"This event means a lot to me, because I know multiple people who were victims of domestic violence. So I am participating on their behalf," said Becky Homes, a student at The W.

"The event was great, and from the collection of hung jeans, we had a lot of participants," said Craig Watson, a licensed counselor at The W.